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Kate Fretz

Lifelong Dreamer ✦

About me

Designer, researcher, lifelong explorer.

Hello, my name is Kate! I beleive the best design starts with genuine curiosity about people. My work sits at the meeting point of research, creativity and technology, and I care deeply about making experiences that feel human, accessible and a little bit joyful.

Whether I'm running interviews, sketching concepts, or exploring AR/VR and AI, I'm driven by the same question: how can thoughtful design make someone's experience better?

My design journey

A path of curiosity

From foundations to research to emerging tech — each step marking a new path along my journey

  1. 2021-2025 · FOUNDATIONAL EDUCATION

    Honours Bachelor in User Experience Design, Wilfrid Laurier University

    My design journey at Wilfrid Laurier University, where I learned how to craft human-centred experiences - graduated with Academic Distinction

  2. 2024–2025 · Creative range

    Graphic Designer, UXDSA

    Designed promotional graphics, social content and event materials, keeping a cohesive visual voice across student campaigns.

  3. 2024–2025 · Evidence-led

    Research Apprentice, Wilfrid Laurier University

    Designed and facilitated a 10-day diary study comparing gamified and non-gamified e-learning, then synthesised findings for faculty and public presentation.

  4. 2025 · Sharing findings

    ACERS Research Showcase Recognition

    Presented my gamification-and-flow research and received recognition at Laurier's Academic, Creative, Engaged Research Showcase. - Award Winning Research Findings

  5. 2026 · Going deeper

    Master of Digital Experience Innovation, University of Waterloo

    Expanded into product strategy, emerging tech and immersive experiences — graduated with Academic Distinction.

  6. 2026–present · Strategy

    Digital Content Strategist, Vodka Friday Inc.

    Shaping digital branding, content strategy and social campaigns by applying UX and analytics to strengthen brand experiences.

Education & recognition

Credentials & awards

Master of Digital Experience Innovation

University of Waterloo

2026 · Academic Distinction

Bachelor of Design in User Experience Design

Wilfrid Laurier University

2025 · ACADEMIC DISTINCTION

Academic, Creative, Engaged Research Showcase Recognition

Wilfrid Laurier University · 2025

Dean's Honour Roll

University of Waterloo · 2025-2026 Wilfrid Laurier University · 2021–2025

Experiential Learning & Design Project Scholarship

Scotiabank · 2021–2022

Academic Distinction

University of Waterloo · 2026 Wilfrid Laurier University · 2026

My goals

Where I'm headed

1

International opportunities

I'm seeking roles that let me work globally and design across cultures.

2

Research & HCI

Deepening my craft in human-computer interaction and evidence-led design.

3

AI, AR & VR

Designing meaningful, humane experiences for emerging mediums.

4

Innovation & lifelong learning

Staying curious, experimental and always growing as a designer.

Let's explore what's possible together.